![Kentucky State University was chartered in May 1886 as the State Normal School for Colored Persons, only the second state-supported institution of higher learning in Kentucky.[1] During the euphoria of Frankfort's 1886 centennial celebration, the city donated $1,500 towards the purchase of land for a new college on a bluff overlooking Frankfort.
The new school formally opened on October 11, 1887, with three teachers, 55 students, and John H. Jackson as president.[1] Recitation Hall (now Jackson Hall), the college's first permanent building, was erected in that year.
KSU became a land-grant college in 1890, and the departments of home economics, agriculture and mechanics were added to the school's curriculum.[1] The school produced its first graduating class of five students in the spring of that year. A high school was organized in 1893. This expansion continued into the 20th century in both name and program. In 1902, the name was changed to Kentucky Normal and Industrial Institute for Colored Persons. The name was changed again in 1926 to Kentucky State Industrial College for Colored Persons.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/7262/80b239a0-cf4a-4e00-8ea0-fb6e64265ab6.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=500&q=medium)
Photo by Corey Dargan
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Our top choices for Kentucky State University hotels
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (306)
"Really nice hotel and location."
Jeff
The price is ฿3,733
฿4,392 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Jan - 18 Jan 2026
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (74)
"Great location, excellent communication from the property with check in information and amenities. "
Joshua
The price is ฿2,629
฿5,794 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Dec - 23 Dec
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (28)
"Wonderfully private and quiet"
Mark
The price is ฿3,598
฿4,234 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Jan - 5 Jan 2026
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1049)
"Very nice hotel, friendly service great breakfast good location"
Jeff
The price is ฿3,646
฿4,845 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Dec - 24 Dec
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1000)
"Friendly staff"
Michael
The price is ฿2,670
฿3,141 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Dec - 24 Dec
5.0 out of 10, (182)
"Dirtiest motel I have ever stayed in. Dried feces, vomit and possibly blood on walls around toilet. The smell of wet shower and mold permeatedmtue air. It was well lit, quiet and in a good location. The bed was reasonably comfortable. "
Matthew
The price is ฿1,884
฿2,217 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Dec - 24 Dec
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Top Kentucky State University Hotel Reviews
The Delegate
10/10 Excellent
